Marleen and I have been friends for over 55 years. I say “have” rather than “had” as our friendship will never go away. We went on many trips and holidays together. One incident I remember so well was Stan and I were building a cabin at Shuswap and early stages we were sleeping on the floor. In the middle of the night Marleen said “Something furry just ran over my face”. We rolled on the floor laughing. We took a Mexican Riviera cruise and the four of us shared a cabin. You have to be really good friends to do that! We were talking one evening about the church in Calgary building huts for people in Mexico and it was mentioned that they didn’t put in windows and doors. Marleen said “then how do they get in”. We rolled on the floor laughing. Marleen and I called ourselves “Heart Sister” as neither of us had sisters. It was a sad day when I lost my Heart Sister.
I've known Marlene my whole life as my parents are close friends with her and Paul. I truly got to know her when she attended the medical office in which I was working. She would come in weekly and we would have a great visit and she would brighten my day. She had the cutest laugh and had these beautiful kind eyes that could see inside your heart. We went on a cruise together, a large group we were, and we had many laughs over that busy week. My children got to know her on that trip even though they were quite young and enjoyed her very much. When I think of Marlene the words understanding, sweet, cheerful, positive and loving come to mind. I feel blessed to have had her as a friend.
It's not until our loved ones are gone that we truly realize what we had and what we will never have again. We will never physically share further good times or bad times, laughs, stories or jokes. These will only be experienced in memories or with others who had the opportunity to truly to get to know her. Mom was loving, caring, a wonderful mother and a truly compassionate individual. I have many fond memories of growing up and the joys the family shared. Love you mom you will be missed.
Mom. Please look after your grandson and keep him safe.
My deepest sympathy to Paul and family. Marleen quickly became a cherished member of my Colebrook Family. She was a kind lady who was a joy to be around. She had the loveliest smile. I enjoyed visiting with Marleen on Sundays and at church celebrations...and, whenever Marleen could join the 'lunch bunch' at A&W on a Sunday! I'm so very sorry for your loss. Blessings to you all. Diane Jolda
Marleen my most cherished cousin and the sister that I never had. That beautiful smile, radiant eyes and contagious laugh is what I will miss most about Marleen but the memories will always be with me. She was a caring, compassionate person with a heart of gold. There are way too many special and genuine qualities to mention about Marleen but those of whose lives she touched will know exactly what they are. We will miss you but you will remain in our hearts forever.
